Council approves early-voting mailer and postal services for upcoming elections

The council approved awarding Kent Communication Inc. the low bid for printing and mailing an early-voting notification mailer for up to $3,780 and also approved up to $12,000 for postal services to cover that mailer plus absentee ballots and postcards. The city clerk explained that state law requires one notice per registered voter rather than per household and that the city will add the Monday prior to the general election to expand early voting days in November from nine to ten.

Councilmembers asked whether one mailed notice would cover both the primary and regular elections; the clerk confirmed the mailer will cover both. The clerk said the mailer will instruct voters about early-voting locations and hours; the mayor and council accepted the motion and staff will proceed to execute the contract and mailing plan.